How do I know if I meet the income limit for affordable housing in my area?

Check the current New Jersey income limit chart for your county and household size. Add all gross income for those living in your home.

Can my income change after I qualify for a program?

Yes, but you must report any changes to your local housing authority. Your eligibility will be reviewed annually or as changes occur.

What happens if my income rises above the program limit?

You may pay increased rent or move to market-rate housing, depending on the program's policies. Always inform your housing authority about changes.

Where can I appeal if my application is denied?

You can request a hearing or review through your local housing authority or the Landlord-Tenant Section of the Superior Court of New Jersey.

Are there special programs for seniors and people with disabilities?

Yes, many affordable housing programs have options for seniors and disabled applicants. Indicate this on your application for additional assistance.

Understanding New Jersey Affordable Housing Income Limits

Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance New Jersey published June 21, 2025

Finding affordable housing in New Jersey can be challenging, especially with changing rent prices and limited availability. One of the first steps to determine if you qualify for government-supported rental housing is to understand the current income limits. This guide explains how these income limits work, who sets them, and how you can use this information to apply for affordable housing and rental assistance programs throughout New Jersey.

What Are Income Limits for Affordable Housing?

Income limits set the maximum amount your household can earn and still qualify for affordable housing programs. In New Jersey, limits are determined each year based on the area's median income by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and then adopted or adjusted by state and local housing authorities. These limits help target rental assistance and affordable units to those who need them most.

How Are Income Limits Calculated in New Jersey?

Area Median Income (AMI): HUD examines household incomes in each county or region to set an AMI figure annually.
Household Size: The more people in your household, the higher your income limit is likely to be.
Program Type: Programs like Section 8, NJHMFA affordable housing, or public housing may use slightly different thresholds.

For example, in 2024, a family of four in Essex County must generally earn less than $86,300 to qualify as "low income" under HUD’s guidelines.^[1]

Common Affordable Housing Programs in New Jersey

Several programs use income limits to determine eligibility:

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
New Jersey Low and Moderate Income Housing Program (COAH)
Public Housing managed by local authorities

Each program uses official Department of Community Affairs (DCA) income limits chart, which is updated every year and available on the state website.

Income Limit Charts and How to Check Your Eligibility

The official income limit chart lists income maximums by household size and county. Review the current year’s chart and compare your household’s combined gross income to the figures listed for your area.

Extremely Low Income: Below 30% of AMI
Very Low Income: Below 50% of AMI
Low Income: Below 80% of AMI

If your income is above these limits, you may not qualify for certain affordable housing programs, but you could still be eligible for other assistance options.

Required Forms: Applying for Affordable Housing in New Jersey

Housing Assistance Application (DCA Form): DCA Housing Assistance Application
Use this statewide form to apply for various rental assistance programs managed by the DCA, such as Section 8 or the State Rental Assistance Program. Applicants must submit proof of income and household details.
Renters can apply online or mail the form to their local DCA office. If a renter recently lost income or experienced a major change in household size, they should update their application as soon as possible.
Affordable Housing Certification (COAH Form): Certification of Income Eligibility
This form is used when applying for affordable homes or apartments in towns participating in the COAH program. It verifies that an applicant’s combined household income falls within the program’s limits.
Applicants should prepare recent tax returns, pay stubs, or benefits statements to support their application.

Who Oversees Renters’ Rights and Affordable Housing in New Jersey?

Residential tenancy disputes and affordable housing issues in New Jersey are handled through the Landlord-Tenant Section of the Superior Court of New Jersey. This is the official tribunal for residential tenancy matters in the state.

Renters’ rights regarding affordable housing and rent protection are governed by state legislation, primarily the New Jersey Statutes: Title 2A Administration of Civil and Criminal Justice, Chapter 18-61.1 et seq. and relevant DCA regulations.

FAQ: Income Limits and Affordable Housing in New Jersey

How do I know if I meet the income limit for affordable housing in my area?
Check the current New Jersey income limit chart for your county and household size. Add up your gross (pre-tax) household income and compare it to the posted limits.
Can my income change after I qualify for a program?
Yes, but you must report changes in employment or household composition to your housing authority. Continued eligibility will be reviewed periodically.
What happens if my income rises above the limit after moving in?
You may need to pay a higher rent based on your new income, or in some cases, transition to market-rate housing. Consult your housing authority for details.
Where can I appeal if my affordable housing application is denied?
You can request a hearing or appeal through the Superior Court of New Jersey - Landlord-Tenant Section or ask for a review through your local housing authority.
Are there affordable housing programs for seniors or people with disabilities?
Yes. Many local and state programs set aside units or vouchers specifically for seniors and disabled applicants. Indicate your status when applying to ensure you are considered for those accommodations.

Conclusion: What New Jersey Renters Should Know

Income limits for affordable housing protect access for those who need help the most.
Check official charts yearly, as income limits change with local economies.
Use the correct forms and be ready to supply proof of all household income.

Staying informed about affordable housing requirements can help renters stay secure and avoid misunderstandings during the application process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Housing Assistance: Guidance and applications for statewide programs.
Local Housing Authorities: Rental support at the city or county level.
Superior Court of New Jersey – Landlord-Tenant Section: Tenancy hearings and appeals.
DCA Renters' Assistance for more assistance programs.

HUD, Official Income Limits Documentation (2024).
New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, 2024 Income Limits Chart.
New Jersey Statutes: Title 2A, Chapter 18-61.1 et seq. – Landlord and Tenant.
Superior Court of New Jersey, Landlord-Tenant Section.
New Jersey DCA, Housing Assistance Application (Form).